Nicholls receives state, federal grants for campus upgrades

Nicholls State University has received nine grants totaling more than $800,0000 to enhance the university’s research opportunities, classroom instruction and community outreach efforts.

Sydni DunnStaff Writer

Nicholls State University has received nine grants totaling more than $800,0000 to enhance the university’s research opportunities, classroom instruction and community outreach efforts.Both state and federal dollars contributed to the total amount, which will pay for nine university-proposed projects, said Carrie Robison, associate commissioner for sponsored programs administration for the Board of Regents, which sets policy for state colleges and universities.Some of the money came from a designated Regents fund, some from the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance.Debi Benoit, director of research and sponsored programs at Nicholls, said the university submits grant proposals for projects every year.“In the 10 years I’ve done this, this is the highest,” she said. “It’s significant considering the budget conditions of the state that these grant dollars are available.”Nicholls submitted about 18 grant proposals, and nine projects were approved, Benoit said. That’s considered a “high return.”The total grant money, from all entities, will go toward:n Upgrades to the university’s geomatics, or surveying, computing lab to train students in global positioning systems, laser scanning and other technologies. n A yearlong training program to improve math instruction among local teachers in fourth through eighth grades. n Simulation equipment and supplies for a critical-care nursing lab.n An ion chromatography system, which separates mixtures, to be used for biology and chemistry teaching and research.n Water quality analysis instruments that will show students the environmental research techniques used to monitor coastal erosion, oil spills and pollution.n Simulation equipment to help nursing and dietetics students learn how to conduct nutritional assessments of older adults.n Nicholls LA GEAR UP science camp to motivate low-income high school students to learn science and encourage them to attend college.n Print-making equipment, including a new press.n A Nursing Department initiative to implement innovative teaching and evaluation strategies using technology such as iPads.The proposals are written by faculty members and department heads and approved by Benoit’s office before they are sent to the agencies that award the grants.Allayne “Laynie” Barrilleaux, vice president for Academic Affairs, said the programs will add to the university, and in turn, to the region.“This points to the quality of what we’re doing with the limited resources we have,” Barrilleaux said.